A Lynn museum is gearing up to celebrate its 25th anniversary next year with an appeal to raise £100,000.

Trustees and staff at True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum are hoping to raise the money to complete important repairs to the site along with carrying out education projects within schools.

The museum, founded by the late Pat Midgley, has been ensuring the stories of the fishing community in the Old North End are not forgotten since opening its doors in 1991.

Dr Paul Richards, trustee chairman, launched the Silver Jubilee Appeal on Tuesday and said there was a window next year to make sure that “True’s Yard is here in 25 years time”.

He said: “I think True’s Yard has made a difference to this town and West Norfolk over the last 25 years and we want to continue doing so.

“Next year is a celebration of what True’s Yard has done and we want to carry on with that. We hope people will support us in that aim.”

A recent survey has highlighted the need for roofing repairs on some of the buildings along with replacing windows.

The 1904 fishing smack, which lies in the heart of the yard, is also in need of important conservation work. Holes are starting to appear within this boat and an expert has estimated the repair costs to reach £6,000.

The museum also plays an important part in the community by providing access to computers for people in the community, including the unemployed.

But Dr Richards told the reception on Tuesday that some of the computers date back to the 1990s and are urgently in need of replacement.

Education is another important mission for the museum.

The museum is also hoping to create a book for primary schools using a time line showing the history of North Lynn, the town and England.

Dr Richards , who added that the logo will feature a herring, which are known as “silver darlings”, said: “We want to do more outreach work.

“We want to produce a lovely colourful book about our heritage with True’s Yard and how the fisherfolk have contributed to the survival of this town for centuries.”

The fundraising has already got off to a good start with £11,000 coming in from two donors plus there is a host of events planned.

Dr Richards has thanked the host of volunteers, including a number of business people, for their support to the museum.

Sir Jeremy Bagge has put out an appeal for people in charge of defunct educational charities to get in touch with the museum.

He told the reception that 30 years ago the Home Office estimated that the total income of educational and school charities in West Norfolk was £500,000.